Among numerous types of welders, stick welders are one of the most common tools that both professionals and novices love to use for their welding projects.
So why do they love this kind of welder? Does it have any drawbacks? How can you pick a suitable choice? All of these questions will be answered within this best stick welder reviews UK of ours.
You will find out your Best Stick Welder UK after this article. You have our word!
What Is A Stick Welder?
A stick welder is a mechanical tool used for stick welding, which is also called Manual Metal Arc Welding (MMA/MMAW) or Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW).
This welding process utilizes an alternating or direct electrical current from a power source. The electrical current runs from the power source and goes through the gap amid the welding stick and your metal workpiece where it forms an electric arch because of the dissimilarity in potential.
A stick welder is appropriate for both outdoor and indoor uses and is especially effective for welding alloys or joints. It enables users to make a firm and efficient bond even on rusty and dirty metals.
There are models that use either direct current (DC) or alternating current (AC), but there are others that allow both of them (AC/DC). In which, units using AC are the most economical.
Advantages And Disadvantages Of Stick Welding
Advantages
Stick welders are prevalent in the market and are a great choice for beginners, amateurs, and professionals because they have a large number of strong points over their rivals. The most remarkable benefits of a stick welder are as below:
Portability
In comparison with other types of welders, the majority of stick welders are very compact and mobile. At the same time, they can work without a heavy bulky and heavy gas cylinder like other models.
You can carry them with you to any place without effort, which is critical if you need to weld something outdoors or you have welding jobs in different places.
Budget-friendly
Overall, these arc welders cost you less to buy and use than other kinds of welders. Besides, users also do not have to buy any extra equipment or accessories (e.g., external shielding gas) to use the device.
Versatility
With a stick welder, you can weld clean, dirty, or painted metal easily. Hence, you do not have to buy any extra welder or tool or spend time cleaning/preparing your workpiece to get the job done.
Importantly, stick welders work well on a wide array of metals and alloys. You can change different rods to weld various metals. For example, there are rods that can burn through rust metal, ones that penetrate deeper through the hard metals, ones that support smooth welding, and so on.
Plus, they allow you to carry out your welding projects not only indoor but also outdoor, even underwater and during bad weather such as hard rain and wind, too.
Diversity
Stick welders are available in a large quantity, quality, model, and price out there. This means your choice is unlimited, and you can always have something suit your uses and budget.
Easy to use
While other machines seem to be complex, getting used to a stick welder and the Manual Metal Arc Welding process is not challenging even to beginners.
Most novices can even use a stick welder to weld difficult sections such as edges and corners of a metal shelf.
Especially in cases when you have to get a weld as soon as possible rather than using complicated techniques to create a perfect joint, a stick welder may be the most efficient equipment.
Disadvantages
Of course, there is nothing perfect. Sadly, in spite of numerous advantages, stick welders still have some of the following disadvantages.
Require advanced skills for perfect welds
This is not always true to all welding projects. Earlier, we mentioned that using a stick welder was straightforward to people of any level, so is this a paradox?
No. We mean to tell you that anybody can use a stick welder to complete some welds, even in small crevices, but creating exemplary welds is a different story.
Manoeuvring a stick welder is not tricky, but stick welding your metal pieces excellently (create highly accurate and clean welds) depends heavily on your skills and techniques rather than the device.
Ineffective against very thin materials
As we described at the top of the article, a stick welder uses arc welding. While even the best arc welders are unusable for extremely thin materials, a stick welder is no exception.
No matter how skilful you are, you cannot use a stick welder for anything slimmer than 18-gauge.
Cost a relative amount of time
Although you do not have to spend much time preparing the workpiece, it might be necessary for you to change the welding rods for different applications.
Besides, stick welding also leads to spatter, which requires you to clean the slag generated by the gas cloud throughout the welding process.
How To Choose The Best Stick Welder?
Despite being the simplest welding appliance, as a mechanical tool, a stick welder still has many components, factors, and features to consider before you know whether it is suitable for you or not.
We cannot talk about all of them, as some factors are less important. So, you can focus on considering the following things before making a purchase:
Inverter or Transformer?
Stick welders are available in either an inverter or a transformer model. The foremost question in selecting the right stick welder is which of them is for you.
If you need a small arc welder that delivers sleeker weld, inverter models are your optimal choice. Vice versa, if you do not mind using a bigger and bulkier machine to work with rougher welds, opt for a transformer stick welder.
Amperage
The amperage range of a welder is a crucial determiner when you seek the ideal stick welder to use since it specifically decides what users are able and unable to weld.
Although nearly every stick welder manages to fuse all types of weldable metal, it still demands a welder to have the proper amperage range to weld varied gauge segments.
A few grunty stick welders are capable of running a great thick bead past a chunky metal slab, but they can hardly touch a thin 1/8-inch tube without creating a messy hole through it.
Similarly, a 140-amp stick welding machine can scarcely create a dent in a 2.5-inch joint that needs to be filled.
Because there are always unexpected variables, it is a good idea to buy a welder with around 25 to 55 amp more than the specs that you plan for your workpieces.
Welding with a stick welder that has a maximum amperage range higher than your needs is still much better than welding the metal slightly cold.
Duty cycle
Apart from determining the operation time without making the device overheated, the duty cycle is also indicative of the build quality of a stick welder.
The longer duty cycle a model offers, the more durable and higher quality it is likely to be. You can use it for an extended time during a welding session as well as in the long run.
Safety Features
Safety is always the key factor that determines whether you should use a mechanical device or not. For stick welders, manufacturers may add some of the following safety features.
- Duty cycle indicator
This indicator will tell you when you should stop welding to prevent overheating the equipment. The hotter the unit is, the brighter the light indicator is. Then, turn off the welder when you see it is nearly going to reach its peak.
- Thermal overload protection
For those who are not vigilant and often miss the light, the thermal overload protection is a must-have function. It will automatically kick in before the machine becomes too hot.
Thanks to this feature, workers can fully focus on the job and do not get distracted and worry about overheating issues.
Portability
While portability is the most famous advantage of stick welders, if you are a freelance welder that often travels a lot, you still had better care about the dimensions and weight of a model.
Yeah, we mentioned this. Inverter stick welders are the most compact choice. The most lightweight inverter welders only weigh around 5 to 11 kilograms, which is many times smaller than other models.
Price
In addition to mobility, stick welders are famous for their low prices. As you will see in the list in the latter part of this article, you can still own an excellent product that costs less than £100.
Just go from £200 to £500 (or £1000 if you have much to spend), you can enjoy many premium models with much better quality.
Since you will not need to buy any extra parts, gas, or other consumables that can cost you more in the future, feel free to spend a bit more than your planned budget on a product that really meets or goes beyond your expectations.
Additional functions
If you need any extra features, buying a many-in-one machine will cut down the cost, time, and space while ensuring your job done.
Therefore, if what you need is more than merely stick welding, it is clever to invest in a multi-functional model. In the market as well as in our stick welder reviews UK below, there are stick welders that can also function as a plasma cutter, a TIG welder, or perform a MIG/flux core welding process, so on.
Best Stick Welder Reviews UK 2024
Best Stick Welder Under £100
1 – HITBOX Mini ARC Welder 200D ARC Welding Machine
The HITBOX Mini ARC Welder 200D is a compact and efficient welding machine that impresses with its advanced features. The intelligent digital display is particularly useful, providing clear and precise information during operation. Users will appreciate the alarm LEDs which prevent overheating, adding an extra layer of safety. The built-in system synergy chip technology ensures smooth and consistent performance, making it a reliable tool for various welding tasks.
This welder is versatile in its application, accommodating electrode sizes from 1.0 to 3.2mm and handling material thicknesses up to 5mm. Its dimensions, 7 x 7 x 11 cm, and weight of just 3.47 kg make it portable and easy to manoeuvre. Despite its small size, it delivers powerful performance, with features like the Hot Start ARC Force enhancing the welding experience by making it easier to start and maintain arcs.
Durability and reliability are further assured with a 1-year warranty, giving users peace of mind. The HITBOX Mini ARC Welder 200D is a valuable addition to any workshop, offering professional-grade performance in a compact form. Whether for hobbyists or professionals, it is a well-rounded, efficient, and user-friendly welding machine.
Pros
- Provides clear and precise information for ease of use.
- Enhance safety by preventing overheating.
- Ensures smooth and consistent welding performance.
- Supports electrode sizes from 1.0 to 3.2mm.
- Can weld materials up to 5mm thick.
- Easy to transport and manoeuvre with dimensions of 7 x 7 x 11 cm and a weight of 3.47 kg.
- Facilitates easy arc starting and maintenance.
- 1-Year Warranty
Cons
- Can only handle materials up to 5mm thick, which may not be sufficient for heavier-duty tasks.
2 – DEKO 220V MMA Welder
This DEKO 220V MMA Welder is a welding machine that utilizes IGBT inverter technology to produce quality welds. It features a digital display LCD, which allows you to track the welding process, and to adjust settings according to the requirements.
One of the main characteristics of this welder is the hot start feature that makes it simple to begin welding by swiftly increasing the current prior to the start in the process of welding. This prevents sticking and creates smoother welding.
The welder comes with an operating duty cycle of 40%, meaning it can continuously weld for as long as four minutes of every 10 minutes. This makes it ideal for a range of welding tasks, which include the light industrial tasks or DIY projects as well as repairs and maintenance tasks.
This DEKO 220V MMA Welder has a protection level of IP21S that means it is safe from solid objects larger than 12mm in size and water dripping. This allows it to be ideal to be used in a range of settings that include outdoor work sites.
The welder is capable of handling electrode diameters that range from 1.6mm to 4.0mm that gives it an extensive range of versatility for various welding tasks. It also has several safety features like the protection of overheat and an automatic shut-off when the machine gets too hot or has a problem.
Pros
- IGBT Inverter Technology
- Digital Display LCD
- Hot Start Function
- Wide Electrode Diameter Range
- Portable and Compact
- Overheat Protection
Cons
- Limited Duty Cycle
3 – Silverline 677293 Arc Welder 40 – 100A
The Silverline Arc Welder is a gasless 100-amp arc welder with professional features. With a heavy-duty moving coil transformer, you can utilize either a solid or filler wire to create different types of welds perfectly.
Since it requires no gas, you can use the welder in all kinds of weather conditions even when it is rainy and windy. The machine itself is also durable enough to stand against the devastating effects of weather.
However, we think this stick welder is a more appropriate choice for light-duty projects than tough ones. The amperage of 100 amp is too low for thicker and harder metal pieces.
Fortunately, like the Rohr MINI-220PI, the Silverline Arc Welder does come with the standard 13-amp plug. Also, the box includes numerous attachments such as electrode holder, earth cable, and welding mask, etc.
Apart from using no gas, the model is completely safe to use thanks to the automatic thermal cut-out and overload protection with control light to prevent overheating, the welding mask and other safety accessories.
Pros
- Extremely durable
- Multiple professional functions
- 3-year warranty
- Absolutely safe to use
Cons
- The leads are too short
4 – SSIMDER ARC Welder Machine Mini Inverter Welder
The SSIMDER ARC Welder Machine Mini Inverter Welder is a remarkable tool for both hobbyists and professionals. With its smart LCD display, users can easily access real-time welding data and settings. This feature simplifies adjustments and enhances precision, making it suitable for various welding projects. The machine’s multi-functionality, supporting both ARC and TIG welding, ensures versatility. Whether using E7018 or E6013 electrodes, the welder performs reliably, adapting to diverse welding needs.
Moreover, the inclusion of Anti-Stick technology, Hot Start, and ARC Force functions significantly improves the welding experience. Anti-Stick technology prevents the electrode from sticking to the workpiece, reducing frustration and increasing efficiency. The Hot Start function ensures a smooth arc start, while ARC Force maintains a stable arc, even under challenging conditions. These features collectively contribute to a seamless and professional finish, making the SSIMDER welder a valuable addition to any workshop.
Additionally, the SSIMDER WP17V 10-25plug TIG welding torch included with the machine offers enhanced control and precision. This torch is robust and user-friendly, catering to both novice and experienced welders. Overall, the SSIMDER ARC Welder Machine Mini Inverter Welder is an excellent investment, combining advanced features, ease of use, and reliable performance.
Pros
- Smart LCD Display: The real-time data and settings provided by the LCD display make adjustments straightforward and enhance precision.
- Multi-Functionality: Supports both ARC and TIG welding, making it versatile for various welding projects.
- Anti-Stick Technology: Prevents the electrode from sticking to the workpiece, improving efficiency and reducing frustration.
- Hot Start Function: Ensures a smooth arc start, which is beneficial for beginners and helps in achieving a professional finish.
- ARC Force: Maintains a stable arc under challenging conditions, contributing to consistent welding quality.
- TIG Welding Torch Included: The SSIMDER WP17V 10-25plug TIG welding torch is robust and user-friendly, enhancing control and precision.
Cons
- Learning Curve: The advanced features and settings might require some time for beginners to master fully.
Best Stick Welder Under £200
1 – Stamos Welding Group S-MMA-250PI.2 – I Highly Recommended
This black monster is powered by up to 250 A at the 60% duty cycle, allowing you to melt down the toughest metals that are up to 10mm in thickness.
However, if unnecessary, you can regulate the power down to 200 A or lower while operating the machine without pauses. As such, the Stamos Series S-MMA-250PI.2 also features the continuous adjustable welding current function.
In fact, the welding current can range from 20 A to 250 A with an intuitive regulator. Just look at the LED display, and you can monitor all the parameters and have full control over the welds.
What’s more, the unit is also equipped with has an earth and E-Hand cable, each of which is 8m. These cables are fourfold as long as conventional welding cables, which means four times greater flexibility.
We were able to use this stick welder to weld steel, nickel, iron, cast iron, and copper that are as thick as 1.5 mm to 10 mm. So, the equipment is perfect for installation and maintenance of metal containers, stairs, rails, gates and doors, and other similar objects.
For those reasons, we assess the Stamos S-MMA-250PI.2 to be both the best stick welder under £200 and the best stick welder for home use.
Pros
- Informative LED display
- Extra-wide amperage range
- Effective against many metals at different thickness
- Highly compact and flexible
Cons
- Not suitable for welding thin plates
2 – DEKOPRO 250A ARC Welder Machine
The DEKOPRO 250A ARC Welder Machine stands out for its advanced IGBT inverter technology, which ensures high efficiency and energy savings. Users will appreciate the closed-loop feedback control and built-in fan, features that enhance performance and maintain consistent power output. This machine is equipped with an ultra-low voltage intelligent regulator, making it reliable even in challenging conditions. Its compact and lightweight design, with dimensions of 37.29 x 28.7 x 16.4 cm and a weight of just 3.94 kg, makes it highly portable and easy to store.
In addition to its practical design, the DEKOPRO welder offers impressive power capabilities. With an electrode diameter range of 1.6-4.0 mm and a power factor of 0.93, it delivers robust and stable welding performance. The input power of 4.1KW ensures that it can handle various welding tasks with ease. This machine is well-suited for both professional and hobbyist welders, offering versatility and dependability in one package.
Overall, the DEKOPRO 250A ARC Welder Machine is a top-notch choice for anyone needing a reliable and efficient welding tool. Its advanced technology, combined with user-friendly features, makes it an excellent investment. The high efficiency, energy-saving attributes, and compact design cater to a wide range of welding needs, proving it to be both a practical and powerful addition to any workshop.
Pros
- Ensures high efficiency and energy savings.
- Maintains consistent power output.
- Reliable performance in challenging conditions.
- Enhances performance and prevents overheating.
- Easy to transport and store, with dimensions of 37.29 x 28.7 x 16.4 cm and a weight of 3.94 kg.
- Suitable for various welding tasks with a range of 1.6-4.0 mm.
- Delivers robust and stable welding performance with a power factor of 0.93.
- Suitable for both professional and hobbyist welders.
Cons
- Needs 4.1KW, which might not be ideal for lower power setups.
3 – GYS 029941 GYSMI 80P – 80A MMA/Arc and Stick Welder
The GYS 029941 GYSMI 80P Stick Welder impresses with its compact and lightweight design, weighing only 2.5 kg. Its dimensions, 23 x 14 x 10 cm, make it a convenient choice for anyone needing a portable welding solution. This welder is suitable for steel, stainless steel, and cast iron electrodes up to 2.5 mm in diameter. The inclusion of Hot Start, Arc Force, and Anti Sticking technology ensures a smooth welding experience. The product also comes with a reassuring 12-month UK warranty.
Performance-wise, the GYS 029941 GYSMI 80P excels with a duty cycle of 60% at 31A, even at 40°C. This makes it reliable for continuous use without overheating. The welder accommodates electrodes ranging from 1.6 to 2.5 mm, making it versatile for various welding tasks. Users have noted that the Hot Start feature is particularly beneficial for initiating a stable arc, and the Anti Sticking technology prevents the electrode from sticking to the workpiece, enhancing efficiency.
Overall, this stick welder is a robust and efficient tool. Its portability combined with advanced features makes it ideal for both hobbyists and professionals. The 12-month warranty provides additional peace of mind, confirming its quality and durability. In summary, the GYS 029941 GYSMI 80P is a highly recommended choice for those in need of a reliable and versatile welding solution.
Pros
- Weighs only 2.5 kg and has compact dimensions (23 x 14 x 10 cm), making it easy to transport and store.
- Suitable for steel, stainless steel, and cast iron electrodes up to 2.5 mm in diameter.
- Features Hot Start, Arc Force, and Anti Sticking technology for a smoother welding experience.
- Offers a 60% duty cycle at 31A even at 40°C, ensuring reliable performance during extended use.
- Comes with a 12-month UK warranty, providing peace of mind regarding quality and durability.
Cons
- Only welds electrodes between 1.6 to 2.5 mm, which might not be suitable for all tasks.
Best Stick Welder Under £300
1 – GYS 030077 Gysmi 160P Stick Welder
In spite of being more expensive than two products above, we do not find the GYS 030077 Gysmi 160P really a more excellent welder. That’s why we put it in the lowest position in this section.
Of course, it is still in the top best stick welders under £300, so it does not mean to be a bad choice. There is something that may make you more interested in this option.
As one of the lightest inverter stick welders, the GYS 030077 Gysmi 160P is 0.6 kilograms lighter than the Stamos Germany Pro Series S-MMA-250PI.2.
Owing to the high no-load voltage, the machine can start and be ready for welding immediately. It is a kind of “Hot start” function that we saw in Stamos models.
The unit is driven by the innovative microprocessor, and equipped with the anti-sticking technology and ‘ARC force’ so that even newbies can create smooth welds.
Furthermore, you can use this welder with any kind of electrodes in direct current (DC), from basic, stainless steel, rutile, to cast iron ones.
Upon purchase, customers will receive a UK 13 Amp plug adaptor, a sturdy suitcase, an electrode holder, and an earth cable.
Pros
- 1-year warranty
- Compatible with all electrodes in direct current
- Easy to use
- Ergonomic design
Cons
- Expensive
2 – R-Tech Pro-Arc175
You cannot go wrong with the R-Tech Pro-Arc175 for light-duty projects. Except for the not-so-high 175-amp maximum output, this model provides users with almost everything they need when welding.
Apart from the IGBT welder, the complete kit supplies a carry case, clamps, 3M Earth and Electrode leads, and so on. All are ready to use at the moment you open the box.
The appliance is also good at precision, even in disadvantageous situations (heavy rain and strong winds, for instance). No protective gas is required, too.
It is a little heavy at the weight of 16 kilograms, which means less manoeuvrability and portability. However, it is still appreciative for the solid construction of the carrying case.
What might encourage you to buy this stick welder is its 3-year warranty. This policy lets all customers within the UK to repair failures of the appliance without any cost, even the shipping, and returning fee.
Pros
- Very durable
- 3-year warranty
- High precision
- CE approved
Cons
- Rather heavy and bulky
- Average amperage output
Conclusion
Throughout our article of the best stick welder reviews UK, we have presented you with the best stick welders in all price ranges from under £100 to £300.
After determining your budget, just use our buying guide to see which products suit you most in your affordability. However, we recommend purchasing something that is a little more expensive yet provides more value.
Now go out there and shopping!
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